Unlike WiFi, Ethernet requires a physical connection via an Ethernet cable. *Ethernet is a layer 2 protocol for sending data between devices. However, large offices, networks, and data centers with dozens or hundreds of computers usually do require switches. Homes and small offices need routers for Internet access, but most do not need a network switch, unless they require a large amount of Ethernet* ports. In practice, what this means is that routers are necessary for an Internet connection, while switches are only used for interconnecting devices. Routers do this by connecting with different networks and forwarding data from network to network - including LANs, wide area networks (WANs), or autonomous systems, which are the large networks that make up the Internet.
Routers select paths for data packets to cross networks and reach their destinations. What is the difference between a switch and a router? Home WiFi networks are one common example of a LAN. *A local area network (LAN) is a group of connected devices within close physical proximity.
Unlike a router, a switch only sends data to the single device it is intended for (which may be another switch, a router, or a user's computer), not to networks of multiple devices. A network switch connects devices within a network (often a local area network, or LAN*) and forwards data packets to and from those devices.
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